The environment is an essential aspect of our existence and it provides us with the necessary resources for our survival. However, our activities have significantly contributed to the degradation of the environment. Environmental degradation is the deterioration of the natural environment through various human activities. Some of the most pressing environmental problems we face today include climate change, deforestation, soil erosion, air pollution and the depletion of natural resources.
Climate change is the most significant environmental challenges we face today with rising temperatures and sea levels threatening ecosystems, wildlife, and human populations around the globe and is caused due to the release of greenhouse gases, such as carbon dioxide and methane into the atmosphere. These gases trap heat in the atmosphere, leading to the rise in global temperatures. It results in the rise in sea-level, frequent and severe weather events, extinction of plant and animal species and also affects human health. Deforestation is another major problem, contributing to the loss of biodiversity, which leads to issues like Soil erosion, Climate change, pollution etc. Pollution of Air, Water, Soil and other factors play a major role in degrading the Environment. Harmful Gases, Chemicals and industrial waste are released which lead to pollution. Unavailability of appropriate dumping facilities, deterioration of natural environment can be seen which also spreads various diseases, lifespan of plants and Global Warming.
Thus, the depletion and suboptimal use of natural resources such as water, minerals and fossil fuels is a growing concern as we rely heavily on these resources for our energy and manufacturing needs. Tree plantation drives, Conservation of Water, avoiding plastic use, usage of 3R’s: Reduce, Reuse, Recycle such activities will help in subtracting these problems.
For this, the G20 forum is a phenomenal platform consisting of world's largest advanced and emerging economies, representing approximately 80% of global GDP, 75% of international trade, and two-thirds of the world's population. It has the potential to play a significant role in addressing environmental issues because of its influence, resources, coordination, and leadership capabilities. By working together, the G20 can set an example for other countries and drive progress on key environmental issues. The sooner the effective steps are taken, the better will be the tomorrow and a sustainable future for mankind.
- Maitreyee Deshpande & Vilandi Kulkarni
Kaveri College, Pune
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